The impact of attitudes toward the personal future on study motivation and work orientations of nonworking adolescents

A study of the relationship between images of the future and aspirations of nonworking adolescents was undertaken to test the hypothesis that pessimism about the future results in reduced study motivation and conventional work orientations. A sample of 171 high school and university students was administered a questionnaire to determine their attitudes toward the future, study motivation (general, value of certificates, profession oriented) and work orientations. Results were contrary to expectations. The students had a positive attitude toward the future, were highly motivated to study, and were optimistic about their professional careers. Generational differences (i.e., age differences) were pronounced. Results are discussed in the context of the value changes of the last decade.